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Abreu returns from Minors to help off bench

Abreu returns from Minors to help off bench

Bobby Abreu Dodgers

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LOS ANGELES -- The Dodgers selected the contract of Bobby Abreu from Triple-A Albuquerque on Sunday, one month after designating the veteran for assignment. In a corresponding move, right-handed pitcher Chris Withrow was recalled from from Double-A Chattanooga and placed on the 60-day disabled list.

Abreu, 38, batted .251 with 17 RBIs and 26 runs in 70 games with the Dodgers earlier this season after being signed at the beginning of May. He started the season with the Angels, but he was released after appearing in just eight games.

The veteran split time in left field with Juan Rivera earlier this season, but became expendable with the addition of Shane Victorino. He stuck around with the organization and remained hopeful he would return in September once rosters were expanded.

"I like it here," said Abreu, who added he would like to play for about three more years. "I have a good time and they treat me good. I understood the situation with Victorino. They had to open up a spot for him. It was a trade. There was no problem."

Manager Don Mattingly said Abreu gives the Dodgers an experienced bat off the bench, which should be valuable over the final month of the season.

"Sometimes I'll have to start the inning, so I just find a way to be on base," Abreu said. "The situation of the game will dictate my approach at the plate."

The left fielder made a short stint with the Isotopes after being hampered by a minor ankle injury. Not guaranteed he would be asked to rejoin the Dodgers, Abreu got the call Saturday night and arrived at Dodger Stadium before Sunday's game.

"You always take your chances," he said. "Go back to Triple-A for a while, keep playing and having at-bats. You just wait for the time they could call you back."